Confronting Waste

Source: Maria Koijck

Modern medicine has transformed lives, enabling surgeries that save millions annually. Yet, the environmental toll of these life-saving procedures often goes unnoticed. Dutch artist Maria Koijck brings this hidden issue to light through her thought-provoking work that challenges us to consider the environmental impact of surgery waste while recognizing the paramount importance of patient outcomes. During her own cancer treatment, Koijck collected and documented the waste generated from a single surgery, unveiling a staggering amount of disposables destined for landfills or incineration.

The scale of surgical waste is striking. At the University of Vermont Medical Center Emergency Department, approximately 144,450 disposable gloves are used each month or about 1.73 million disposable gloves annually for just one department. Operating rooms across the world generate similar quantities of waste, much of it single-use items designed to ensure sterility and prevent infections. Patient safety and health outcomes must always take precedence, but Koijck’s initiative highlights the need for a balanced approach. The industry needs to explore opportunities for sustainable practices without compromising the care patients receive.

One area of focus is surgical gloves, a critical component of infection control. A study from the University of Vermont highlights their environmental impact, noting the vast quantities used in hospitals daily. While single-use gloves are essential to maintaining hygiene and preventing cross-contamination, the study suggests that advancements in materials science and recycling methods could mitigate their environmental footprint while maintaining the highest safety standards.

Healthcare faces a challenging paradox: it must balance its mission to save lives with its environmental responsibilities. Koijck’s work and studies like those from the University of Vermont remind us that sustainability is not about sacrificing outcomes but about rethinking processes. By incorporating life-cycle assessments, reusables where feasible, and exploring circular economy principles, the industry can continue to prioritize patient health while making strides toward reducing its ecological footprint.

Progress will take collaboration among healthcare providers, policymakers, and innovators, ensuring that sustainability aligns with the ultimate goal: protecting both human health and the planet.